Who We Are
Located in Howard and Montgomery counties, along the upper 12 miles of the Patuxent River, the park is comprised of 6,700 acres of natural areas and farmlands. A portion of the park is a state wildlands area. Recreational use is primarily hunting, fishing, hiking and horseback riding. The park includes a catch and release trout stream, designated hunting areas and unmarked hiking and equestrian trails. Note: The Maryland Park Service does not rent horses, and only provides the trails as a means of recreation. The park is located Howard/Montgomery County line between Maryland Routes 27 and 97. Paths lead from parking areas at Long Corner, Mullinix Mill, Route 94, Hipsley Mill, Howard Chapel and Route 97 road crossings over the river.
A new 1,000-acre park, Freedman’s State Park tells the story of an African American family that overcame enslavement to become a prosperous and influential family in northern Montgomery County. Their descendants helped shape the Civil Rights Movement in Maryland, leading the struggle to create a more just and equitable society. Previously a part of the 6,700-acre Patuxent River State Park, Freedman’s encompasses land once owned and farmed by Enoch George and Harriet Howard, and their descendants. This park tells their story. Freedman’s State Park is being planned and developed in partnership with Preservation Maryland, the Sandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring Slave Museum, Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, Afro Charities, and the Maryland Historical Trust. Visitors are welcome to explore the Howard Chapel Cemetery, walk the park trails, and visit the Greenbury Howard House, Howard Family Cemetery, and view the ruins of Locust Villa.
What We Do
The mission of the Maryland Park Service is to manage the natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources to provide for wise stewardship and enjoyment by people. The Maryland Park Service's volunteer programs provide many ways for park-goers to be involved in supporting and maintaining public lands for all to enjoy. The work that volunteers do in our parks is very important! Interested in volunteering in state parks? Please explore what options may be available near you!
